HEAD – Genève is the only university in Switzerland to offer a bachelor’s course in Jewellery and Accessory Design, specializing in personal products: watches, jewellery and accessories in the broad sense of the term, including ‘smart’ products. The design and manufacture of such products – from single items to whole ranges – form the core of a course in which acquisition of technical skills and knowledge of materials is combined with mastery of the process of design and project methodology. Watch Design is taught in partnership with watch manufacturers or experts from the watchmaking sector; HEAD also offers courses in watch culture and specialized lectures. 

The historical and sociocultural context of the relationship between the individual, the product and its design is explored. Students also learn about the realities of marketing, management and how to enhance their personal portfolios in response to the demands of a specific market. Development of a personal creative language is part of a conceptual approach to the various processes of product design, prototyping, manufacture and communication. The designer is encouraged to develop a personal outlook and given the tools to respond to market demands in a regional, national and international context. The lectures, workshops and projects are supported by numerous external experts and partnerships with actors in the sector. All these features make this an outstanding and distinctive course with an international appeal.

See all Product Design - Jewellery and Accessory projects

Head of Department
David Roux-Fouillet

Scientific Deputy
Nina Gander

Scientific Collaborator
Stéphanie Van Zwam

Assistant-e-x-s
Lucile Burnier
Cyril De Froment

Teaching staff
Yves Corminboeuf
François Dumas
Elizabeth Fischer
Joëlle Gagliardini
Magdalena Gerber Muriel
Fabrice Schaefer
Valérie Ursenbacher